When it comes to comfort food, few ingredients can rival the humble leek. Sweet and savory, with a subtle oniony flavor, leeks add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes – from soups and stews to pasta and risotto, and even sweet treats like tarts and quiches. But when combined with creamy ingredients like cheese, cream, or butter, leeks become truly irresistible. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility and comfort of creamy leek dishes.
From classic soup and pie to pasta and risotto, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite or just need some inspiration for a quick weeknight dinner, we’ve got you covered with our collection of creamy leek recipes.
Classic Creamy Leek and Potato Soup
This rich and comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender potatoes, sweet leeks, and creamy goodness. With its subtle flavors and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped leeks and cook until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Leek and Cheddar Quiche
This quiche is a delicious way to use up spring’s bounty of leeks, paired with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese. Perfect for brunch or dinner, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté leeks in butter until tender.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
4. Arrange cooked leeks and grated cheese evenly over the crust.
5. Whisk together eggs and heavy cream, season with salt and pepper. Pour mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Leeks
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of leeks.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 leeks, cleaned and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced leeks and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the leeks are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leek and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. This recipe combines the sweetness of leeks with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and comforting risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add leek and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. If using wine, add it after 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Leek and Bacon Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the sweetness of leeks with the smokiness of bacon, all tied together with a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rounds
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced leeks and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and leek mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Gruyère Tart
A savory tart that showcases the sweet and subtle flavor of leeks, paired with the richness of Gruyère cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rings
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, sauté leeks and butter over medium heat until tender and lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Arrange cooked leeks on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leek and Chicken Pot Pie
This classic comfort food combines tender chicken, sweet caramelized leeks, and a rich creamy filling, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, leeks, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are caramelized and the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Add thyme and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture; stir to combine.
5. Roll out pie crust and place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the chicken mixture and top with another piece of pie crust or a pastry crust lattice design.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Leek and Spinach Dip
This creamy dip is a perfect combination of sweet leeks, earthy spinach, and tangy cream cheese. Serve it with crackers or vegetables for a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté leeks in 2 tablespoons of oil until tender and lightly browned.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked leeks, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Serve hot with crackers, vegetables, or pita chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the creaminess of goat cheese with the sweetness of caramelized leeks, all wrapped up in a juicy chicken breast. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced leeks in olive oil over medium heat until caramelized and tender.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each breast with crumbled goat cheese and spooned caramelized leeks.
5. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leek and Smoked Salmon Frittata
This flavorful frittata is a perfect blend of sweet leeks, savory smoked salmon, and creamy eggs. A great option for a special brunch or breakfast gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
– 4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté leeks in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Add the flaked smoked salmon and stir gently.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked leeks in the skillet.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until edges start to set.
6. Sprinkle cheese on top and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until eggs are almost set and the frittata is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Leek and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the addition of sweet leeks and nutty Parmesan cheese!
Leek and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chopped potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss to coat.
3. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are roasting, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until softened and caramelized.
5. Drain the roasted potatoes and add them to the skillet with the leeks. Mash the potatoes and leeks together until smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Leek and Bacon Carbonara
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the sweetness of leeks with the smokiness of bacon for a rich and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rounds
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the leeks in a little oil over medium heat until softened and caramelized (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the diced bacon to the skillet and stir to combine with the leeks. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine. Add some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Combine the egg-coated spaghetti with the leek and bacon mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the subtle earthiness of leeks and the comforting warmth of butternut squash. It’s an ideal dish for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped leeks and cook until they’re tender and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the chopped butternut squash, broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Leek and Ham Gratin
This rich and creamy gratin is a perfect combination of sweet leeks, salty ham, and gooey cheese. It’s an ideal side dish for special occasions or a comforting main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or pancetta)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice leeks into 1-inch pieces and separate into individual layers.
3. In a large skillet, cook leeks in butter until softened and lightly caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Add ham, garlic, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with Gruyère cheese.
6. Pour heavy cream over the cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Leek and Sweet Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of caramelized leeks, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4-6 leeks, cleaned and sliced into thin rings
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize leeks over medium heat with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs and cheese (if using).
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized leeks, and breadcrumb mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Dot the top with butter and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Leek and Shrimp Scampi
This recipe combines the sweetness of leeks with the succulence of shrimp, all wrapped up in a flavorful scampi sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced leeks and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half, about 1 minute.
6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leek and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of sweet corn, tender leeks, and rich cream. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leek and Brie Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets are perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or snack. The sweet, caramelized leeks pair beautifully with the creamy brie cheese and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces brie cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook leeks and garlic in butter over medium heat until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Cut pastry into 12 equal pieces. Spoon a small amount of caramelized leek mixture onto each piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Top with crumbled brie cheese. Fold edges of pastry up to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leek and Herb Focaccia
This flavorful focaccia combines the sweetness of caramelized leeks with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a satisfying snack or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large leek, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, leek slices, butter, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour to form a sticky dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong focaccia.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of leeks with the pungency of garlic butter. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Slice the leeks into 1-inch pieces and sauté in a pan with some oil until caramelized.
5. Stuff the chicken cavity with the cooked leeks and garlic butter mixture.
6. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the comforting flavors of leeks with these 20 creamy recipe ideas. From soups to main courses, and from sweet treats to savory sides, there’s something for everyone. Try classic Creamy Leek and Potato Soup or Leek and Cheddar Quiche for a hearty breakfast. Or, add some cheesy goodness to your pasta with Cheesy Leek and Bacon Pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and refreshing, these recipes showcase the versatility of leeks in both sweet and savory dishes.
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